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Nursery at Gamesley Early Excellence Centre
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Playdough pies becoming real baking captures the character of Gamesley Early Excellence Centre: children's interests provide the starting point for practical learning. The provision begins in the term following a child's second birthday. Two-year-olds use the Caterpillar Room; the Butterfly Room accommodates three- and four-year-olds, with up to 60 places in that room.
Since its move in 2023, the nursery has occupied the Gamesley Primary School building. The two schools share a headteacher, Special Educational Needs Coordinator and Pastoral Manager while operating alongside one another. Nursery education has its own identity here, even within a shared building.
Planning in the Moment means staff develop activities from what catches children's attention. One example began with pretend pies in playdough and became cheese and onion pies to eat. Weighing, handling utensils, following instructions and waiting for a turn gave the activity several learning purposes. It made a child's idea into something tangible.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together early number and literacy, communication, physical skills, relationships, creativity and understanding the world. Play and practical exploration are the teaching methods. Caterpillar Room and Butterfly Room introductions also give parents a preview of nursery life before their child starts.
In June 2024, children explored the field and checked on the chickens each day. Indoors, a pretend flight to France used a classroom aeroplane to extend imaginative play. Climbing equipment and a trampoline gave children opportunities to practise movement and balance; children with complex SEND received help to develop strength and attempt physical challenges.
Language and curriculum precision. The June 2024 inspection identified two areas needing attention: some learning areas needed clearer decisions about the knowledge and vocabulary to teach, and staff sometimes missed chances to extend language during play. These matter because following children's interests also requires adults to introduce new ideas and words deliberately.
Settling begins before the first nursery session. Families are invited to a meet and greet evening, followed by a teacher's home visit to learn about the child's interests and agree starting arrangements. A parent or another familiar adult helps the child settle. This gives staff information about the child before asking them to manage an unfamiliar setting.
Parents can share their child's interests and development with both the teacher and key person. Consultations cover progress and next steps, while Tapestry Online Learning Journals allow families to see nursery learning and add experiences from home. Communication works in both directions.
Children identified with SEND have an Individual Education Plan, reviewed each term with parents and relevant agencies. Makaton signs provide another means of communication. In June 2024, staff responded quickly when children needed additional help, and children needing support with their emotions received it. Safeguarding arrangements were effective at that inspection.
Meals are provided through Derbyshire County Council Catering Service. Lunch follows a three-week rotation, with the menu changing every six months. Special diets require a GP or paediatrician's letter or referral, so families needing dietary adjustments should prepare that documentation.
Attending this nursery does not guarantee a Reception place, including at the primary school sharing its building. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route and meet the normal deadline. Shared leadership and premises should not be treated as an admissions entitlement.
Main nursery sessions run from 8:30 to 11:30am and noon to 3pm. The centre's operating hours are 7:30am to 4pm. The usual attendance pattern is five mornings or five afternoons; 30-hour provision and paid places are also offered.
The nursery describes a 15-hour education entitlement beginning in the term after a child's third birthday. For two-year-olds, places prioritise children eligible for funding, with paid places also offered. Ask the school for current charges.
To arrange a look around, telephone 01457 860456. General enquiries can also go through the Get In Touch form. A visit offers the chance to meet staff and discuss the attendance pattern you need.
Nursery education begins in the term after the child's second birthday. The Caterpillar Room serves two-year-olds, and the Butterfly Room serves three- and four-year-olds.
Morning sessions run from 8:30 to 11:30am, and afternoon sessions from noon to 3pm. Children typically attend five mornings or five afternoons.
Families are invited to a meet and greet evening and receive a teacher's home visit. A parent or familiar adult helps the child settle into nursery.
Special diet menus are offered through Derbyshire County Council Catering Service, which requires a letter or referral from a GP or paediatrician.
No. A separate Reception application is required through the normal admissions process, even if you want the primary school in the same building.
